One of the most common types of Missouri car accidents are those caused when the driver of one vehicle runs into the back end of the car in front of him.  In most cases, Missouri law assigns fault for a rear end collision to the back-most person in the accident.  This is called the "rear end doctrine".  An assignment of fault typically means that the at fault individual is liable for the damages and injuries of the person or persons in front of the injury.

The Missouri "rear end doctrine" allows a judge to consider the mechanism of the accident and make a determination as to whether the doctrine applies.  If so, the driver's negligence is presumed and the plaintiff is relieved from having to provide liability.

In some instances though the person in front of the rear end car accident can be at fault for the crash.  Law enforcement will make that determination if the evidence leads them to believe that the actions of the person in front are such that the driver in the back could not reasonably avoid the collision.  A common example is when a driver entering the highway from an on-ramp cuts in front of a driver who is in the driving lane of the highway. 

Common Injuries In Rear End Car Accidents

Impact speed is not necessarily a good indicator of injury severity.  Many serious injuries can happen even when an accident happens at low speeds.  Probably the most common type of injury sustained in a rear impact car accident is whiplash.  Whiplash occurs when a traumatic event causes the head to be thrust violently in one direction and recoil in another.  The most common symptoms of whiplash are neck pain, upper back pain, headaches and pain at the base of the skull.  Other symptoms include ringing in the ears, difficulty sleeping, concentration problems and fatigue.  Many symptoms begin immediately after an accident but some may take several days to develop.  Most people will fully recover from whiplash in a matter of weeks but 15% to 20% of those will experience chronic pain that may last upwards of two years.  People who have experienced whiplash in a Missouri car accident should seek medical treatment with a trusted physician as soon as possible.

Other common injuries sustained in read end car accidents are:

• Herniated discs
  
• Rotator cuff tears
• Broken ankles
• Knee injuries
• Spinal injuries

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Missouri car accident please feel free to contact the Terry Law Firm toll free at 1-888-317-2525 to discuss your legal options.